Animal Reiki: What's the Difference?

Reiki is a gentle energy that many find to be healing: emotionally, mentally, and physically. Reiki can be used to clear energy in a space and create an inviting vibe; it is energy, so it does not subscribe to the confines of human constraints of time and place. So what's the difference between Animal Reiki and "plain" Reiki? Animal Reiki is an extremely gentle energy; it may be too subtle for some people to notice, but it is "just-right" for sensitive animals.

Each level of Reiki training brings new insights, symbols, and energies. Animal Reiki was developed with the sensitivity of animals and the natural world in mind. Just as most animals have heightened senses compared to humans, such as smell or sight, they are also very sensitive to energy and change. What we consider to be a gentle Reiki energy, may be considered overwhelming and powerful to a pet. Your pet will not have any adverse reactions to being present while you receive Reiki. In fact, many animals LOVE Reiki and want to be present for sessions. However, just like humans, animals have free will; some will choose to not participate at all, and others may be selective to when, where, or which Reiki is being used.

Consider for a moment: what is your favorite color? What is your least favorite color? Scientifically, colors have different wavelengths and vibrations; while we don't typically think of the energy, wavelength, or frequency of a color, it exists and is what distinguishes one color from another. While we have preferences in color, animals may have preferences in Reiki.

I experienced this with my own pups. My male dog, who is extremely sensitive and reactive, had zero interest in being around when I practiced Reiki, while my female dog wanted to "hog" it, if possible. However, once I received training in Animal Reiki, my male dog was all-in. He would lean in, move to direct the Reiki where he wanted it, and finally begin to calm and relax.

We all have different preferences and sensitivities; animals, domestic and wild, are no different. Animal Reiki is just an additional form of Reiki that may be more comfortable and appealing to animals.